The Seven Coloured Earth of Chamarel is a surreal geological formation, a stretch of rippling sand in seven colors. Created by the uneven cooling of the lava and the subsequent erosion of the multi-colored rocks, this curious anomaly has come to be one of Mauritius' most popular attractions. Red, brown, violet, green, blue, purple and yellow sands form undulating layers that swoop and swirl around the shallow dunes; a sandy pool of serpentine bands of color surrounded by lush tropical forests. Even when intentionally mixed, the differently colored sand spontaneously settles into distinct layers once more. Interestingly, despite torrential rain, the Seven Coloured Earth does not seem to erode but instead remains oddly undisturbed. The colors are at their brightest in the sunshine right after rain or at sunrise when the golden rays set the sands ablaze.
Mauritius Glass Gallery is an unique project undertaken jointly by Phoenix Beer and Phoenix Camp Minerals. The glass gallery utilizes used bottles and recycles them. Junk bottles are transformed into elegant pieces of art that adorn the mantles of classy living rooms. Visitors can also check-out the on-site workshop where skilled craftsman blow life into dull pieces of glass and get information on the tedious process of glass blowing. You can also shop for impressive glass merchandise that makes for an ideal gift or trip souvenir.
There is much more to Mauritius than just beaches, and even the local galleries and museums are worth visiting. Didus Art Gallery is one such creative space that lays a platform for the local artists to display their exclusive art work. Located at the Caudan Waterfront, the gallery showcases paintings and other art forms; blending local art with modern ideas, the collection at Didus represents local life and folklore. Apart from permanent exhibits, it also features nouveau art by upcoming artists. Visitors can shop for postcards, painting reproductions and other art objects to take back home souvenirs of their lovely trip. For additional details and images, check website.
The Mauritian island has many towns and villages that are worth exploring, Riviere des Anguilles being one of them. Beaches, nature parks, hiking and much more await to be explored here. Riviere des Anguilles is ideal for a day trip complete with fun-filled activities.
Housed in a French Colonial mansion, which was the home of the then Commandant of Grand Port, Jean de Robillard, the National Historical Naval Museum houses a range of artifacts and documents that give a glimpse into the colorful naval history of the region. Spread over three floors, of which only the ground floor and the first floor are open to the public, the museum boasts a comprehensive collection, which includes exhibits like a huge French shooting gun, a British cannon, and some parts of the H.M.S Magicienne, which was a French frigate captured during the great Battle of Grand Port. Call ahead for more information.
Lying in Baie aux Tortues or Turtle Bay are the remnants of what was once an arsenal for the French army. Built under the direction of the then French governor, Mahé de Labourdonnais, a sudden explosion in the year 1774 destroyed most of this stronghold. The ruins throw light on the architecture of the French colonists and one can mark out structures that resemble a flour mill and lime kiln. The ruins now forms part of the Maritim Hotel thus limiting access for the general public. For more information on history and visiting, do call ahead.